Firefighter Emergency Declaration Procedure
Give each component clearly, slowly, and repeat if needed
The three words a downed firefighter must say after declaring MAYDAY
Switch to manual activation immediately — do not wait for auto-alarm.
Key radio and say clearly: "MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY." Switch to emergency channel if available.
Hold PTT — do not release until IC respondsL – Location · U – Unit · N – Name · A – Assignment · R – Resources. Speak slowly. Repeat if needed.
Emergency Air Button if equipped — extends usable air supply.
Attempt egress if possible. If not — seal the area, close doors, signal position.
Control breathing. Slow movement. Do NOT remove SCBA. Stay on radio.
Panic consumes air fast — control your mindAnnounce emergency traffic on all channels. All non-essential radio traffic stops.
Repeat firefighter's name and last known location. Confirm LUNAR information received.
Deploy Rapid Intervention Team immediately to last known location. Request additional resources.
Personnel Accountability Report — ALL companies must answer. Identify all personnel on scene.
Every crew must respond to PAR — no exceptionsReassign resources as needed. Maintain radio contact with downed FF. Request EMS standby.
Get on your belly. Follow a wall to an exit. Don't let go.
Bang on floor/door, activate flashlight, stay on radio. Be loud. Be heard.
If trapped, close doors between you and fire. Buys time. Reduces heat and smoke.
Slow your breathing. Stop unnecessary movement. Stay calm. Air = time.
PAR is called by IC immediately after a MAYDAY is declared. Every company officer must respond with their crew's status and location. Failure to answer PAR is treated as a second MAYDAY. All operations shift to rescue mode until all personnel are accounted for.